Eugene Wilson

Eugene Howard Wilson, 90, of Traverse City, died Wednesday, February 28, 2024.

He was born on March 16, 1933 in Traverse City the son of Russell R. and Ruth Angelina (Benson) Wilson. Eugene was a lifelong resident of Traverse City.

He started working at age 12 as a caddy at the Traverse City Country Club and later at the original Oleson’s grocery store on Front Street. After a short time working as a lathe operator for Brunswick in Muskegon, he started his trade as a young man working with his father at Russ Wilson's Floor Covering. Eugene installed carpet, tile and vinyl flooring. The latter became his specialty and he considered himself the best vinyl installer in the area. He was self-employed, but partnered with Montgomery Wards and Northern Floor and Tile for most of his career. He retired at the age of 70 after 51 years in the floor covering business.

Eugene was a proud member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the American Military League in Traverse City. He was an accomplished golfer and bowler, and also enjoyed, fishing, mushrooming, dancing, and weekend trips to the UP in the fall. He enjoyed time spent with family and especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Eugene is survived by his sons, Michael (Ellen) Wilson of Kalamazoo and Neal Wilson of Interlochen; grandchildren, Carolyn Wilson of North Carolina and Andrew (Mandy) Wilson of Maple City, great-grandchildren, Holly, Logan, Ellie, Luke and Laura, and sister, Phyllis (Ellsworth) Hansen of Muskegon.

He is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Linda Wilson; sister, Joanne Morgan and brother, Dean Wilson.

A private burial was held at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens, Traverse City.

Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more.